Care for the environment, even in death
By Gail Robinson, The Star
ECO-minded folk who want to be environmentally-friendly even after death will soon be able to have a green burial in Barnsley. The scheme, which should be launched this summer, will see part of Barnsley Cemetery used for the new approach, which Coun Roy Miller, Cabinet spokesman for Environmental Services, says will be of great benefit to the environment.
Coun Miller said: “Being eco-conscious at such an emotive time might be a hard thing to do, but more and more people are becoming aware of the need to slow down the rate at which we consume resources.
“It may surprise some how environmentally-unfriendly and resource intensive modern burials are. However, when you think many coffins are made from hardwood with non-degradable fittings of brass or PVC, and that headstones are made of marble or granite, it all adds up.”
The green burials in Barnsley will see coffins made from sustainable materials like wicker. Instead of a headstone a tree will be planted as a ‘living memorial’.
Coun Miller said: “The popularity of these kinds of burials is growing and, given our strong commitment to green issues, we look forward to being able to offer this service.”